While devising and implementing Lancer Brigade systems took time and effort, Graves led the Brigade to stay the course, achieving exceptional gains in personnel readiness ensuring Soldiers are able to deploy, fight, and win at any time or place when called upon, said Miseli.

"He never looked backed, never flinched, he just lowered his shoulder, and set out on the task at hand," said Miseli. "Because of his ownership of our goals and objectives, and his willingness to put in the effort to achieve them is the foundation of our professional relationship."

The day was not only about the Graves family accomplishments while at JBLM, but a day to embrace Mullinax's experience as an airborne ranger, and his decade of experience in light infantry operations as he assumed his new role.

"Mullinax's leadership and expertise, most recently in the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, has earned him a special place in the future of the Lancer Brigade," said Miseli. "The competence and character required for service as a Brigade Combat Team Command Sgt. Maj., means Command Sgt. Maj. Mullinax came to the BCT as an inherently capable, effective and trustworthy leader."

Graves entrusted Mullinax to continue to build upon the accomplishments and readiness of the Lancer Brigade.

"I know the Brigade will be in great hands as it continues to build readiness to fight and win tonight in any environment, any time," said Graves.

The ceremony concluded with Mullinax sharing his enthusiasm and commitment to individual readiness while serving as the new senior enlisted advisor to the commander.

"I truly believe our principle duty as non-commissioned officers is to train our Soldiers so they will have the very best chance to survive in combat when called upon," said Mullinax. "I will teach our Soldiers everything I know about how to shoot, move and communicate, and keep us warrior focused."